Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace (where the Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko reside) is very near to us.  We have been to the adjoining East Gardens several times. The garden is free and opened to the public and has been since 1968.  The photos I have posted are from a March 4th and a March 29th visit.  The March 4th visit was with Meredith (see earlier postings).  While we were looking at the stone walls, a Japanese gentleman approached us.  He asked if he could show us around.  Turns out he is a tour guide, but not working that day and would like to practice his English!  "No charge" he said!  Takeshi Yanagi then proceeded in giving us a wonderful and informative tour.  On the photo captioned Zoysia grass, I need to give an explanation.  For non- Master Gardeners, I apologize for boring you with this.  I learned about Zoysia grass in my Master Gardener classes.  Zoysia grass is the grass of choice in Japan.  It has been planted at the Imperial Palace grounds since the 14th century.  The photo shows the grass in a dormant stage.  Zoysia grass will not survive in colder climates, including Michigan and Ohio.  Ok...lesson over, class! :-)

Bill and I with our guide, Takeshi Yanagi by bamboo grove

Zoysia Grass in dormant stage

Meredith and Bill on remains of a tower

Our next visit was with friends, Pat and Gary.  I will post more about the Imperial Palace at a later date when the weather had warmed up and the Zoysia grass turned green!

Japan's version of "master gardeners" hard at work.

Pat and Gary